76-year-old John Carrington is preparing to take part in the Walk for Parkinson’s at Sutton Park on Saturday 12 July.

He’s encouraging others to join him in supporting Parkinson’s UK’s Nurse Appeal, which is aiming to raise £9m to fund Parkinson's nurses and other specialists.

Parkinson’s specialists are a lifeline for the 153,000 people in the UK living with Parkinson’s, but currently over 30,000 people with the condition lack access to them. The nationwide shortage in specialists plus a lack of understanding of Parkinson’s among other health and care professionals means that around 1 in 5 people with the condition are missing out on the expert care they desperately need. 

John, who lives with Parkinson’s, volunteers in his spare time as the Branch Chair of Parkinson’s UK’s Royal Sutton Coldfield and North Birmingham Branch where they regularly have 45 to 55 people meet weekly each Thursday afternoon.

John said: “I’m excited for this year’s walk for what I’m sure will be another fun event, raising vital funds for Parkinson’s UK’s Nurse Appeal. Why not come and join us and donate to this worthy cause.”

Aaron Coleman, Community Fundraiser - Central Midlands at Parkinson’s UK, added: “It’s inspiring to have people like John, volunteer once again to support Walk for Parkinson’s to help raise money for Parkinson’s Nurse Appeal.  

"The funds raised will aim to raise £9 million over three years to increase the number of Parkinson’s specialists. This will give thousands of people with Parkinson’s access to the specialist care they need.

“We hope as many people as possible will come along to take part in the walk, which promises to be lots of fun.  We’re also keen to hear from anyone who would be interested in volunteering to support the smooth running of the event.”

Walk for Parkinson’s at Sutton Park will take place on Saturday 12 July, with two routes available: a shorter 2.4 mile route and a longer, 5.8 mile route. It costs just £12 to sign up to Walk for Parkinson’s, with under 18s going free, and the suggested sponsorship target per person is £50. 

All walkers will receive a fundraising pack with tips and advice, sponsorship forms and an exclusive Walk for Parkinson’s t-shirt to wear on the day. As well as walkers, the charity is on the look-out for volunteers to help on the day.

Registration is open until Sunday 6 July 2025. To find out more about Walk for Parkinson’s and to sign up to walk or volunteer visit parkinsons.org.uk.